How to Identify White Trevally

To identify White Trevally (Pseudocaranx dentex), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-blue to greenish-blue dorsally, fading to silvery-white on the flanks and belly. Often has a faint yellowish stripe running along the lateral line. Fins are typically yellowish, especially the caudal and pectoral fins. A small, dark spot is usually present on the upper margin of the operculum.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, compressed body, Large, deeply forked caudal fin, Prominent lateral line with a posterior scute section, Small, dark opercular spot, Yellowish fins, particularly caudal and pectoral

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8 spines, the second with 1 spine and 24-27 soft rays. The anterior rays of the second dorsal fin are elongated.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, with long, pointed lobes.

Pectoral fin

Long and falcate (sickle-shaped), extending beyond the origin of the anal fin.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 2 detached spines followed by 1 spine and 20-23 soft rays. Pelvic fins are relatively small.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a moderately elongated and compressed body, typical of carangids.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Note the silvery body with a bluish or greenish tinge dorsally, and distinct yellowish fins, especially the caudal and pectoral fins. A small black spot on the operculum is a key identifier.

3. 3

   Lateral Line

   Observe the prominent lateral line, which has a distinct arch anteriorly and a straight posterior section armed with scutes (bony plates).

4. 4

   Fin Shape

   The long, falcate pectoral fins and deeply forked caudal fin are characteristic.

5. 5

   Scutes

   Count the scutes on the straight part of the lateral line; Pseudocaranx dentex typically has 26-31 scutes.

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